Friday, November 5, 2010

Olbermann Wronged?

Courtesy of TPM:

Keith Olbermann has been suspended from MSNBC, indefinitely and without pay, after news that he had made political contributions to three Democratic candidates.

"I became aware of Keith's political contributions late last night," Phil Griffin, President of MSNBC, said in a statement. "Mindful of NBC News policy and standards, I have suspended him indefinitely without pay."

Politico reported this morning that Olbermann had made the maximum donation, $2,400, to three Democratic candidates this year: Arizona Reps. Raul Grijalva and Gabrielle Giffords and Senate candidate Jack Conway.

MSNBC has not responded to requests for more information.

Also revealed today, Fox News' Sean Hannity and his wife gave $10,000 to Rep. Michele Bachmann this year. Fox did not respond to a request for comment.

According to a 2007 story, MSNBC and NBC News policy requires employees to report any potential conflicts of interest, including political contributions, and get prior approval from the president of NBC News.

Other MSNBC personalities, including Pat Buchanan, have given to political campaigns. Buchanan gave $2,250 to Republican candidates between 2005 and 2008.

Chris Hayes, editor of The Nation, is reportedly filling in for Olbermann tonight. Hayes contributed $500 to Democratic candidates in 2009.